What's On In Madrid

February

Carnaval
This annual celebration is held in February, the week before Lent, at the Paseo de la Florida. It was revived in 1976 after being squashed for 40 years under Franco's Regime. Highlights of this international celebration include parades, processions and parties in an array of colourful costumes. Check out the interesting "Burial of the Sardine" that marks the end of the event.

May

Fiestas de San Isidro
One of Spain's largest festivals, this weeklong fiesta is held on either side of May 15 and marks the beginning of the bullfighting season. Madrid goes wild at this time and each neighbourhood (barrio) chimes in with their own street party or traditional celebration. Celebrations include music, parades, and free entertainment.

June

Fiesta de la Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida, Paseo de la Florida
According to tradition, girls stop by the ornate chapel of Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida on June 13 in hopes of finding a boyfriend.

October

Autumn Festival
Madrid becomes a perfect roost for culture vultures in autumn when more than 50 dance, theatre and musical groups from countries throughout Europe, the Middle East and America participate in a programme of opera, ballet, dance, music and theatre at about 40 venues throughout the city. The varied selection at this premier cultural festival spans everything from chamber music and classic plays to flamenco and hip-hop.

December

Puerta del Sol
Madrid's New Year's celebration. Revelers gather at the Puerta del Sol and countdown to the new year by eating grapes, a traditional countdown. Celebrations punctuate the New Year events.

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